By now everyone knows that there are more things to do in Seattle than ride the elevator up to the top of the Space Needle. If you do find yourself at the top, look out over the city in all directions and enjoy the view. Then, take the elevator down again, because you need to quit looking and start experiencing the fun things to do in Seattle. Things to do in Seattle Washington vary greatly, for it is one of America’s most unique and interesting cities. You can spend a lot of money on amazing Seattle luxury hotels or ultra-hip restaurants, spend a little on great beer from local breweries, or even find some free things to do in Seattle. No matter what your budget will allow, there is an endless amount of fun things to do in Seattle. Here you’ll find the best things to do in the Emerald City as part of your Washington vacation.
Pike Place Market
One of the most famous things to do in Seattle Washington, Pike Place Market is your chance to buy local produce, fish, flowers, art, and much more. For a quintessential Seattle experience that is also one of the best free things to do in Seattle, a walk around the market seeing the workers throw fish and listening to street musicians play is definitely worth an afternoon.
Smith Tower
Those interested in historic architecture should visit Smith Tower in the Pioneer Square neighborhood of downtown Seattle. The Chinese Room is an unforgettable place to set up a corporate meeting or celebration of any kind, and the observation deck is worth the few dollars to ride to the top of Seattle’s first skyscraper. For some, a visit to Smith Tower will be one of the more memorable and fun things to do in Seattle.
Breweries
Seattle prides itself in its microbreweries, where some of the most unique and tasty beers are brewed and served. Names like Red Hook, Elysian, Pyramid, and Maritime Pacific make up a tradition worth tasting in Ballard, Fremont, or Woodinville. Every bar or restaurant worth visiting in Seattle will have at least one of these on tap, but a trip to where the beer is made is one of the great rainy day things to do in Seattle Washington.
Experience Music Project
Any list of things to do in Seattle for the music lover must include a trip to Experience Music Project, a groundbreaking place to truly take in the past, present, and future of music. With architecture that is daring to say the least, and music from the past and present taking center stage, Jimi Hendrix would be proud of the EMP, himself a native Seattleite.
Seattle Art Museum
While on the topic of museums, the Seattle Art Museum must be mentioned as an excellent place to visit, or rather, places. The SAM, as it is known, includes the main downtown location, as well as the Seattle Asian Art Museum, the Olympic Sculpture Park, and the SAM gallery. A visit to any or all of these will inspire creativity within you, and is one of the most culturally enriching things to do in Seattle.
Seattle Parks and Woodland Park Zoo
Yes, it rains a lot here. But take it from a local: there is a peaceful quality to the Seattle rain, and when the sun shines in Seattle, it is the greenest place you can find (thanks to all that rain). No matter the weather, take a chance to enjoy some naturally-focused things to do in Seattle Washington. Discovery Park is one of the most loved urban parks in the nation. Enjoy views of Puget Sound, a picnic on the hillside, or the miles of walking trails that make this one of the great free things to do in Seattle. Next, experience wildlife at Woodland Park Zoo, a major zoo located in the heart of Seattle. Woodland Park Zoo gives you an up close encounter with wildlife, and with interactive options for kids, families will find this one of the most fun things to do in Seattle.
Safeco Field and Qwest Field
Seattle has, in recent years, become quite a sports town, with fans of the Mariners (MLB) and Seahawks (NFL) being ranked among the most raucous in the nation. As far as concert and sports venues, both teams boast great places to watch games and experience events. The Mariners’ Safeco Field is one of the most beautiful places to see a baseball game in the country on a pleasant evening from April through September. The Seahawks have the loudest stadium in the NFL, so bring your earplugs and cheer along, but bring your credit card… a Hawks game is far from being among the free things to do in Seattle.
Kirkland
Kirkland is a thriving city on the “East Side” (of Lake Washington), and is home to excellent places to eat, drink, and enjoy live music. Get off the beaten path of Seattle attractions and visit Kirkland, an up-and-coming town that will not disappoint as one of the most fun things to do in Seattle.
Neighborhoods
Like many major cities, Seattle has distinct neighborhoods that each has a flavor of their own. If you want to enjoy one of the most authentic things to do in Seattle Washington, just spend a day taking a tour of the different neighborhoods, enjoying the attractions that make each of them famous Pacific Northwest destinations
Monday, 4 July 2011
Friday, 1 July 2011
Seattle Travel
When it comes to Seattle travel, it pays to do a little research about the weather. While this destination definitely has a reputation for its rainstorms and grey clouds, there are also seasons where you’re more likely to encounter sunshine. Seattle tourism doesn’t depend on sunshine however, this city is so full of attractions, shopping, dining, and atmosphere that travelers can easily ignore the grey skies. Besides, a little bit of rainy is a great excuse to get a seat in a cozy café and watch the city walk by outside while sipping on a cup of coffee.
Summer is still the most popular time to visit—if you’re wondering when to go to Seattle and expect the greatest chance of sunshine, this is it. It also stays light until about 10 pm during the longest days of the year, which is great for leisurely evenings spent wandering around the waterfront or exploring its neighborhoods.
Summer is also a great time of year for festivals. Some of the best events in Seattle are held during these months, in order to match up with the best possible weather. Bite of Seattle, an annual event held in August, is a great opportunity to try some of the city’s best restaurants, while the Bumbershoot music festival, held over Labor Day weekend attracts thousands of fans who come to see the bands. There are several stages set up at Seattle Center, and in addition to smaller independent bands, the festival has hosted the likes of Neko Case, The Decemberists, Modest Mouse, and even Bob Dylan.
Early fall is still a very popular time for Seattle tourism, but as October hits, so does the shoulder season, which is great news if you’re trying to travel on a budget, as the prices of both hotels and flights tend to drop. Cool fall temperatures will still allow for plenty of walking around and exploring neighborhoods, and the hiking in the region is excellent, particularly as the fall foliage is surprisingly pretty here. Being prepared with an umbrella or rain jacket is wise, but the thing about Seattle rain is that it never rains too hard—you’re much more likely to encounter a light drizzle. If you can time your trip for October, you can also check out the famous Oktoberfest in the Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, located about two hours’ drive from the city.
The winter is a great time to take advantage of Seattle’s indoor attractions. There are far fewer festivals at this time of year, but it’s perfect if you want to visit the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center, Museum of Flight, or one of the other interesting museums. It’s also a terrific time to go shopping, and both the University Village shops and the Pike n’ Pine area downtown have a wide variety of stores and restaurants.
Seattle travel picks up again in the spring, and by the time May and early June roll around, the city is in full swing. Day trips outside the city are popular once the weather gets warm, but there is plenty to do in the city itself. The first major festivals, such as the Sasquatch music festival, are held in the region, and the outdoor activities that Seattleites love are back in vogue. If you’re in the city over Memorial Day weekend, for instance, why not rent a kayak and spend the day paddling around Lake Union and enjoying a picnic at Gas Works Park, or take a ferry to Bainbridge Island and check out the local wine tasting scene. Every traveler will have to let their own preferences guide them on when to go to Seattle, but this city in the Pacific Northwest definitely has lots to offer all year long.
Summer is still the most popular time to visit—if you’re wondering when to go to Seattle and expect the greatest chance of sunshine, this is it. It also stays light until about 10 pm during the longest days of the year, which is great for leisurely evenings spent wandering around the waterfront or exploring its neighborhoods.
Summer is also a great time of year for festivals. Some of the best events in Seattle are held during these months, in order to match up with the best possible weather. Bite of Seattle, an annual event held in August, is a great opportunity to try some of the city’s best restaurants, while the Bumbershoot music festival, held over Labor Day weekend attracts thousands of fans who come to see the bands. There are several stages set up at Seattle Center, and in addition to smaller independent bands, the festival has hosted the likes of Neko Case, The Decemberists, Modest Mouse, and even Bob Dylan.
Early fall is still a very popular time for Seattle tourism, but as October hits, so does the shoulder season, which is great news if you’re trying to travel on a budget, as the prices of both hotels and flights tend to drop. Cool fall temperatures will still allow for plenty of walking around and exploring neighborhoods, and the hiking in the region is excellent, particularly as the fall foliage is surprisingly pretty here. Being prepared with an umbrella or rain jacket is wise, but the thing about Seattle rain is that it never rains too hard—you’re much more likely to encounter a light drizzle. If you can time your trip for October, you can also check out the famous Oktoberfest in the Bavarian-style town of Leavenworth, located about two hours’ drive from the city.
The winter is a great time to take advantage of Seattle’s indoor attractions. There are far fewer festivals at this time of year, but it’s perfect if you want to visit the Seattle Aquarium, Pacific Science Center, Museum of Flight, or one of the other interesting museums. It’s also a terrific time to go shopping, and both the University Village shops and the Pike n’ Pine area downtown have a wide variety of stores and restaurants.
Seattle travel picks up again in the spring, and by the time May and early June roll around, the city is in full swing. Day trips outside the city are popular once the weather gets warm, but there is plenty to do in the city itself. The first major festivals, such as the Sasquatch music festival, are held in the region, and the outdoor activities that Seattleites love are back in vogue. If you’re in the city over Memorial Day weekend, for instance, why not rent a kayak and spend the day paddling around Lake Union and enjoying a picnic at Gas Works Park, or take a ferry to Bainbridge Island and check out the local wine tasting scene. Every traveler will have to let their own preferences guide them on when to go to Seattle, but this city in the Pacific Northwest definitely has lots to offer all year long.
Seattle , Washington State
Pike Place Market Seattle is a destination most visitors to Washington would not dream of missing. Seattle Washington is the largest metropolitan city in the entire state, and has everything you might expect in a Pacific Northwest experience. Stunning views of snow-capped mountains, the salty sea and cooking fish aromas typical of a waterfront restaurant Seattle is well-known for, the upscale shopping and dining and the posh Seattle hotels make this city worth at least a few days of your visit to this state.
Visitors new to the city will find hundreds of lodging options in Seattle, ranging from the European style Mediterranean Inn of Lower Queen Anne, which has weekly and monthly rentals, to the historic Renaissance Madison hotel, with its stunning views of Puget Sound from the 25th floor of this Seattle hotel.
The Paramount is one of the most well-known Seattle hotels. Located right on Pine Street downtown, this is a great smaller boutique-style Seattle hotel with an award winning restaurant, the Dragonfish Café. Business travelers and tourists who simply want to be at the heart of it all frequently choose one of the 146 rooms in their search for a Seattle, Washington hotel.
The abundance of Seattle hotels offer you the flexibility to stay in whatever part of town you like. Whether you want to stay in a Seattle accommodation that is close to the Pike Place Market and Pier 54, the center of the bustling waterfront, or prefer to be further in downtown Seattle Washington, with easy access to restaurants and shopping, you can easily find the place you are looking for.
On the waterfront, which is easily reachable by walking through the public market, you can go to see the mummified figure and strange objects at the historic Ye Old Curiosity Shoppe, or taste real saltwater taffy at the candy shop. For the tastiest clam chowder in any restaurant Seattle has to offer, walk south a few piers to Ivar"s fish bar, which you can recognize from its bright blue awning.
If you're looking for a restaurant Seattle has so many dining options you won"t know where to begin. Venture beyond downtown and go up to the Phinney Ridge neighborhood and enjoy gourmet vegetarian cuisine at Carmelita"s. A Seattle Washington hotel can have some of the best restaurants around. Andaluca is hidden away in the Mayflower Hotel on Olive street downtown, and serves small dishes of sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine in a luxurious setting.
Your choice of Seattle accommodation can make the difference of your experience here. There are so many neighborhoods and each has its own distinctive feel. A Seattle hotel in Fremont will bring you closer to everyday life in one of the hippest neighborhoods in Seattle. Cross the Alaskan Way viaduct and head over to West Seattle. The junction has a cool record store/diner called Easy Street that is packed every Sunday morning, and is the type of unique restaurant Seattle is known for.
Whether you decide to spend an exciting weekend at your choice on a whirlwind tour hitting top spots such as the Space Needle or the ferry and the historic waterfront and staying at the finest Seattle accommodation, or spend a week or more getting into the groove of the city by renting a furnished apartment in a Seattle Washington hotel, you are going to have a really unique experience that will make you want to come back and visit again.
Visitors new to the city will find hundreds of lodging options in Seattle, ranging from the European style Mediterranean Inn of Lower Queen Anne, which has weekly and monthly rentals, to the historic Renaissance Madison hotel, with its stunning views of Puget Sound from the 25th floor of this Seattle hotel.
The Paramount is one of the most well-known Seattle hotels. Located right on Pine Street downtown, this is a great smaller boutique-style Seattle hotel with an award winning restaurant, the Dragonfish Café. Business travelers and tourists who simply want to be at the heart of it all frequently choose one of the 146 rooms in their search for a Seattle, Washington hotel.
The abundance of Seattle hotels offer you the flexibility to stay in whatever part of town you like. Whether you want to stay in a Seattle accommodation that is close to the Pike Place Market and Pier 54, the center of the bustling waterfront, or prefer to be further in downtown Seattle Washington, with easy access to restaurants and shopping, you can easily find the place you are looking for.
On the waterfront, which is easily reachable by walking through the public market, you can go to see the mummified figure and strange objects at the historic Ye Old Curiosity Shoppe, or taste real saltwater taffy at the candy shop. For the tastiest clam chowder in any restaurant Seattle has to offer, walk south a few piers to Ivar"s fish bar, which you can recognize from its bright blue awning.
If you're looking for a restaurant Seattle has so many dining options you won"t know where to begin. Venture beyond downtown and go up to the Phinney Ridge neighborhood and enjoy gourmet vegetarian cuisine at Carmelita"s. A Seattle Washington hotel can have some of the best restaurants around. Andaluca is hidden away in the Mayflower Hotel on Olive street downtown, and serves small dishes of sumptuous Mediterranean cuisine in a luxurious setting.
Your choice of Seattle accommodation can make the difference of your experience here. There are so many neighborhoods and each has its own distinctive feel. A Seattle hotel in Fremont will bring you closer to everyday life in one of the hippest neighborhoods in Seattle. Cross the Alaskan Way viaduct and head over to West Seattle. The junction has a cool record store/diner called Easy Street that is packed every Sunday morning, and is the type of unique restaurant Seattle is known for.
Whether you decide to spend an exciting weekend at your choice on a whirlwind tour hitting top spots such as the Space Needle or the ferry and the historic waterfront and staying at the finest Seattle accommodation, or spend a week or more getting into the groove of the city by renting a furnished apartment in a Seattle Washington hotel, you are going to have a really unique experience that will make you want to come back and visit again.
Redmond Washington
Redmond Washington is a suburban city located sixteen miles to the west of Seattle. It's about a mile west of Kirkland, and about ten miles northwest of Bellevue. Although Redmond is perhaps best known as the headquarters for the global companies of Microsoft and Nintendo, the city has a number of attractions to offer on its own.
The Redmond Town Center is the center of retail shopping in the city, and it's located in the heart of the downtown area. There are more than 100 stores and retail outlets anchored by major department and specialty stores, cinemas, and dozens of dining venues. In addition to shopping for about any product you can think of, you can have your hair and nails done, get a mortgage for your house, visit your chiropractor, see a movie, and rent a car. At least two major Redmond Washington hotels are located right in the complex.
Exotics at Redmond Town Center is the largest car gathering north of California, and you can attend (with or without an exotic car) on most good weather Saturday mornings from February through October.
Just south of this mega shopping complex is Marymoor Park, which is located on the northern end of freshwater Lake Sammamish. Every year, more than 3 million visitors come to enjoy the 640 acres of this park, taking advantage of the boating, rowing, and water skiing available on the lake and the park's velodrome, off leash dog park, rock climbing area, and hiking trails. Dasani Bikes has donated a fleet of bicycles available rent free with registration; there is a community vegetable garden and a pet memorial garden.
There is a summer concert series with a 5,000 person capacity held in the Willowmoor Farm historical district near Clise Mansion. The mansion is a fabulous house built as a farm manor in 1904 and used today as a museum and venue for weddings. The historic farm windmill dates to the same period and is a city landmark. Also from May to October is an excellent farmers market offering fresh produce from Washington State and handcrafts by local artisans.
Tours of the Redmond WA Microsoft campus provide a fascinating thing do while in the area as well. The visitor center (basically the only part of the campus truly open to the public) is quite interesting and is free of charge. It highlights the history of Microsoft products over the years and has a high-tech gift shop where you can buy branded souvenirs and the latest software. If you want another taste of what life is like for the computer and Internet billionaires like Bill Gates of Microsoft and Jeff Bezos of Amazon, you can book boat tours on Lake Washington, another freshwater lake to the east of town. Cruises on this lake feature views of the luxurious waterfront homes of these men and other of the region's wealthiest.
Those visiting Redmond Washington can drive (usually up the coastal route from California and through Oregon) or fly into Sea-Tac International Airport where most flights to Washington arrive. This area is rich in bed and breakfast inns, and you will find delightful ones in this suburban city. Redmond has an array of hotels and motels, as do surrounding cities.
The Redmond Town Center is the center of retail shopping in the city, and it's located in the heart of the downtown area. There are more than 100 stores and retail outlets anchored by major department and specialty stores, cinemas, and dozens of dining venues. In addition to shopping for about any product you can think of, you can have your hair and nails done, get a mortgage for your house, visit your chiropractor, see a movie, and rent a car. At least two major Redmond Washington hotels are located right in the complex.
Exotics at Redmond Town Center is the largest car gathering north of California, and you can attend (with or without an exotic car) on most good weather Saturday mornings from February through October.
Just south of this mega shopping complex is Marymoor Park, which is located on the northern end of freshwater Lake Sammamish. Every year, more than 3 million visitors come to enjoy the 640 acres of this park, taking advantage of the boating, rowing, and water skiing available on the lake and the park's velodrome, off leash dog park, rock climbing area, and hiking trails. Dasani Bikes has donated a fleet of bicycles available rent free with registration; there is a community vegetable garden and a pet memorial garden.
There is a summer concert series with a 5,000 person capacity held in the Willowmoor Farm historical district near Clise Mansion. The mansion is a fabulous house built as a farm manor in 1904 and used today as a museum and venue for weddings. The historic farm windmill dates to the same period and is a city landmark. Also from May to October is an excellent farmers market offering fresh produce from Washington State and handcrafts by local artisans.
Tours of the Redmond WA Microsoft campus provide a fascinating thing do while in the area as well. The visitor center (basically the only part of the campus truly open to the public) is quite interesting and is free of charge. It highlights the history of Microsoft products over the years and has a high-tech gift shop where you can buy branded souvenirs and the latest software. If you want another taste of what life is like for the computer and Internet billionaires like Bill Gates of Microsoft and Jeff Bezos of Amazon, you can book boat tours on Lake Washington, another freshwater lake to the east of town. Cruises on this lake feature views of the luxurious waterfront homes of these men and other of the region's wealthiest.
Those visiting Redmond Washington can drive (usually up the coastal route from California and through Oregon) or fly into Sea-Tac International Airport where most flights to Washington arrive. This area is rich in bed and breakfast inns, and you will find delightful ones in this suburban city. Redmond has an array of hotels and motels, as do surrounding cities.
The historic town of Port Townsend Washington
The historic town of Port Townsend Washington lies 40 miles northwest of Seattle on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula. Listed as a National Historical Landmark of the United States and centrally located for many outdoor activities, Port Townsend is an enjoyable and enriching addition to any trip to Washington state.
In the early nineteenth century, Port Townsend was thought to become one of the largest port cities in the western United States. Booming seaport business led to strong and fast growth of the city, earning it the nickname “City of Dreams.” Beautiful Victorian homes and buildings filled the city and spoke of a bright future. However, when economic depression hit the country, railroad companies lost the funds to continue rail lines past Seattle and Tacoma to the Olympic Peninsula, essentially crippling Port Townsend's industry and economy. This sudden halt of growth of Port Townsend has made the city a time capsule of the Victorian era, which continues to fascinate travelers from all over the world.
Some of the best-preserved Victorian homes line the streets of Port Townsend Washington. Other historic buildings include the Carnegie Library, the Federal Building, Manresa Castle, the Rose Theatre and the Elk's Lodge, currently home to the Stillwater Cafe. Also popular is the Bell Tower, built in the late 1800s century to call volunteer firefighters and still standing proudly on a bluff overlooking downtown. Several Victorian buildings have been converted into Port Townsend hotels, as well.
Another major draw to Port Townsend is Fort Worden State Park. Originally built in 1897, Fort Worden was one of three forts strategically built to protect the Puget Sound and its naval shipyard from enemy attacks by sea. It has since been used as a military training campus and a juvenile detention facility, having never fired a single hostile shot. The state of Washington turned these historic grounds into a state park in 1973. Its 433 acres provide a wide variety of activities for guests. There are hiking trails throughout the abandoned artillery batteries and bunkers, tours of Victorian-era officer's quarters, 2.1 miles of beaches, abundant campsites, and a youth hostel. The park also hosts the Coastal Artillery Museum, the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and the picturesque Point Wilson Lighthouse.
Port Townsend Washington is also popular for its many festivals and events. The most popular festival, the Wooden Boat Festival every September, is reminiscent of the town's early maritime past and establishes Port Townsend as a Mecca for independent wooden boat builders from all over the world. The city also hosts several annual music festivals, including Centrum Jazz Port Townsend, the largest jazz festival in Washington State. Films are the focus of the Port Townsend Film Festival, held annually in September. Visual arts are celebrated in the many art walks and galleries throughout the town.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be busy in Port Townsend Washington. Many local companies offer unique ways to experience their town, including boating, kayaking, bicycling and horseback riding. Sports fans can choose from golfing, swimming, tennis, baseball and gymnastics. Enjoy the water while whale watching or engaging a game of ultimate Frisbee on the beach. Animal lovers are encouraged to take advantage of abundant dog parks, birding locations and wildlife watching tours. The town's position on the corner of the Olympic Peninsula also makes it a good base for exploring Olympic National Park, including Hurricane Ridge and the Sol Duc Hot Springs.
In the early nineteenth century, Port Townsend was thought to become one of the largest port cities in the western United States. Booming seaport business led to strong and fast growth of the city, earning it the nickname “City of Dreams.” Beautiful Victorian homes and buildings filled the city and spoke of a bright future. However, when economic depression hit the country, railroad companies lost the funds to continue rail lines past Seattle and Tacoma to the Olympic Peninsula, essentially crippling Port Townsend's industry and economy. This sudden halt of growth of Port Townsend has made the city a time capsule of the Victorian era, which continues to fascinate travelers from all over the world.
Some of the best-preserved Victorian homes line the streets of Port Townsend Washington. Other historic buildings include the Carnegie Library, the Federal Building, Manresa Castle, the Rose Theatre and the Elk's Lodge, currently home to the Stillwater Cafe. Also popular is the Bell Tower, built in the late 1800s century to call volunteer firefighters and still standing proudly on a bluff overlooking downtown. Several Victorian buildings have been converted into Port Townsend hotels, as well.
Another major draw to Port Townsend is Fort Worden State Park. Originally built in 1897, Fort Worden was one of three forts strategically built to protect the Puget Sound and its naval shipyard from enemy attacks by sea. It has since been used as a military training campus and a juvenile detention facility, having never fired a single hostile shot. The state of Washington turned these historic grounds into a state park in 1973. Its 433 acres provide a wide variety of activities for guests. There are hiking trails throughout the abandoned artillery batteries and bunkers, tours of Victorian-era officer's quarters, 2.1 miles of beaches, abundant campsites, and a youth hostel. The park also hosts the Coastal Artillery Museum, the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and the picturesque Point Wilson Lighthouse.
Port Townsend Washington is also popular for its many festivals and events. The most popular festival, the Wooden Boat Festival every September, is reminiscent of the town's early maritime past and establishes Port Townsend as a Mecca for independent wooden boat builders from all over the world. The city also hosts several annual music festivals, including Centrum Jazz Port Townsend, the largest jazz festival in Washington State. Films are the focus of the Port Townsend Film Festival, held annually in September. Visual arts are celebrated in the many art walks and galleries throughout the town.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be busy in Port Townsend Washington. Many local companies offer unique ways to experience their town, including boating, kayaking, bicycling and horseback riding. Sports fans can choose from golfing, swimming, tennis, baseball and gymnastics. Enjoy the water while whale watching or engaging a game of ultimate Frisbee on the beach. Animal lovers are encouraged to take advantage of abundant dog parks, birding locations and wildlife watching tours. The town's position on the corner of the Olympic Peninsula also makes it a good base for exploring Olympic National Park, including Hurricane Ridge and the Sol Duc Hot Springs.
Olympia Washington
One of the loveliest cities in America, Olympia is a high-profile capitol city with a charming small-town vibe.
The dominating feature of Olympia is the state capitol building, an elegant 28-story structure that is decorated in fine sandstone, marble, and wood details. The Tiffany designed lighting fixtures are highlighted by a massive 5-ton chandelier that hangs from an enormous 100-foot long chain in the rotunda. Overlooking Puget Sound on a hill above Olympia's city center, the capitol building is a constant reminded of the city's heritage.
Another scenic area of Olympia Washington is the Madison Scenic Park. This is on the eastern side of the city, and its a great spot to look at the city, even more spectacular at sunset.
Fort Lewis is nearby, adding to the visitors who come to Olympia. If you're visiting the nearby Mt Rainier, make a visit to Olympia part of your Washington state vacation. Fishing is an important part of the economy, and you can learn more about the impact of the fishing industry, as well as see Native American Art in Olympia Washington at the State Capitol Museum.
Another interesting place to visit in Olympia WA is the Bigelow House Museum. Original furnishings fill this Gothic revival style house, which has architectural details like a steep pitched roof, and pointed gothic arches. The Bigelow House Museum is listed as a National Historic Place, so you can get a feel for the old days when you visit this important landmark in Olympia Washington.
From the relaxed waterfront promenade to the grounds of the well-manicured capitol campus, you can spend a relaxed weekend wandering through the sunny streets of Olympia, WA. The kids parks, the docks, public gardens and fountains make this is a relaxing place to take a break if you've been driving a lot during your visit to Washington state.
If you are looking for hotels in Olympia, you will find the Red Lion Hotel to be a comfortable, friendly place to stay. Set on lovely grounds, this is a great hotel at a very reasonable price. The live jazz with dinner is a nice touch, and there are a wide variety of dishes to choose from.
Another good place to go if you're looking for Olympia lodging are the Phoenix Inn Suites. Their clean, spacious accommodations are a welcome respite after long hours of travel. You don"t have to stay at a sterile chain hotel. Instead, you can enjoy the excellent staff and friendly service of the Phoenix Inn.
If you arrive at one of the hotels, and they are full, most places are happy to help you look for other options of Olympia lodging. From the lovely views to the relaxed pace, you will love visiting Olympia Washington.
The dominating feature of Olympia is the state capitol building, an elegant 28-story structure that is decorated in fine sandstone, marble, and wood details. The Tiffany designed lighting fixtures are highlighted by a massive 5-ton chandelier that hangs from an enormous 100-foot long chain in the rotunda. Overlooking Puget Sound on a hill above Olympia's city center, the capitol building is a constant reminded of the city's heritage.
Another scenic area of Olympia Washington is the Madison Scenic Park. This is on the eastern side of the city, and its a great spot to look at the city, even more spectacular at sunset.
Fort Lewis is nearby, adding to the visitors who come to Olympia. If you're visiting the nearby Mt Rainier, make a visit to Olympia part of your Washington state vacation. Fishing is an important part of the economy, and you can learn more about the impact of the fishing industry, as well as see Native American Art in Olympia Washington at the State Capitol Museum.
Another interesting place to visit in Olympia WA is the Bigelow House Museum. Original furnishings fill this Gothic revival style house, which has architectural details like a steep pitched roof, and pointed gothic arches. The Bigelow House Museum is listed as a National Historic Place, so you can get a feel for the old days when you visit this important landmark in Olympia Washington.
From the relaxed waterfront promenade to the grounds of the well-manicured capitol campus, you can spend a relaxed weekend wandering through the sunny streets of Olympia, WA. The kids parks, the docks, public gardens and fountains make this is a relaxing place to take a break if you've been driving a lot during your visit to Washington state.
If you are looking for hotels in Olympia, you will find the Red Lion Hotel to be a comfortable, friendly place to stay. Set on lovely grounds, this is a great hotel at a very reasonable price. The live jazz with dinner is a nice touch, and there are a wide variety of dishes to choose from.
Another good place to go if you're looking for Olympia lodging are the Phoenix Inn Suites. Their clean, spacious accommodations are a welcome respite after long hours of travel. You don"t have to stay at a sterile chain hotel. Instead, you can enjoy the excellent staff and friendly service of the Phoenix Inn.
If you arrive at one of the hotels, and they are full, most places are happy to help you look for other options of Olympia lodging. From the lovely views to the relaxed pace, you will love visiting Olympia Washington.
Long Beach Washington
Long Beach Washington is one of the top beach towns along the Washington Coast, and can be an excellent travel base should you be interested in visiting the Long Beach Peninsula. There are some unique attractions in Long Beach proper, including Jake the Alligator Man and the World Kite Museum. You also don't have to go far if you want to visit the local Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, and Long Beach offers easy access to the beach itself.
Long Beach Washington is a name that can be applied to both the town of Long Beach and the Long Beach Peninsula. The peninsula extends for approximately 30 miles north to south and is found in the southwestern part of the state near the Oregon border. Portland is about 110 miles to the southeast, and this is part of the reason why Long Beach WA has long been a popular vacation destination for Portland-area residents. Of course, plenty of people from Washington State also vacation in Long Beach as well, and more and more people who don't hail from the general region are starting to take notice.
Of the towns that can be found along the Long Beach WA peninsula, Long Beach proper might be the most family-friendly. You'll find go-cart tracks in town, for example, and it's easy to rent things like banana bikes and beach cruisers. Carnival rides are also in good supply, and the carousel is certainly popular with families that have young children. Of course, the whole peninsula maintains a family-friendly appeal, and there certainly isn't a lack of things to do regardless of your age.
Hanging out on the beach is understandably one of the most popular things to do in Long Beach Washington, though since the waters stay relatively cold year round, you might not end up doing a lot of swimming. The peninsula's beach stretches for more than twenty miles, so long strolls along the sand are possible. Other beach activity options include flying kites, building sandcastles, and exploring tide pools. You can also go horseback riding on the beach, and vehicles are allowed on the sand. The beach actually doubles as a state highway, with the speed limit being 25 miles per hour. Beach access roads are found in good number on the Long Beach Peninsula.
Digging for razor clams is one of the most popular things to do in Long Beach WA. The area is also rich in oysters, and you can find both clams and oysters on many local restaurant menus. Salmon and tuna are other delicacies from the sea, and thanks to the numerous Long Beach fishing charters, it isn't difficult to arrange fishing expeditions that can see you catching your own meal. South of Long Beach Town is Ilwaco, and it is an especially good place to arrange fishing excursions.
The various towns on the Long Beach Peninsula all have their charms. Lovely Oysterville boasts an enticing National Historic District, for example, and the Victorian homes in Seaview can be a joy to admire. Also worth checking out while on the peninsula are the state parks. At Fort Columbia State Park, savoring the views from the wooded bluff is recommended, and there are plenty of hiking trails to take on. Exhibits that cover the history of the area can be found at the park's interpretive center. In nearby Cape Disappointment State Park, it is possible to tour the North Head Lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse on the West Coast, and you can camp overnight. The park is also where you will find the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. It is worth highlighting the fact that the Long Beach Peninsula was the end of the Lewis and Clark expedition's western trail.
No discussion about Long Beach Washington would be complete without going into depth about Jake the Alligator Man. A pop culture icon of sorts in the Northwest, Jake the Alligator Man is a half-man, half-alligator creature in mummified condition. You can find "him" in a glass case at Marsh's Free Museum. This museum, in turn, is found at 409 S. Pacific Avenue in Long Beach Town. In case you are wondering, the alleged half-man, half-alligator creature that is Jake the Alligator Man was supposedly discovered in a Florida swamp.
Long Beach WA hotels offer something for virtually every taste or preference, so visitors should have little trouble finding a good travel base. It gets even easier to secure accommodations that suit your wants and needs when you also consider the vacation rentals. Condos are in relatively good supply, as are cottages and bungalows.
Long Beach Washington is a name that can be applied to both the town of Long Beach and the Long Beach Peninsula. The peninsula extends for approximately 30 miles north to south and is found in the southwestern part of the state near the Oregon border. Portland is about 110 miles to the southeast, and this is part of the reason why Long Beach WA has long been a popular vacation destination for Portland-area residents. Of course, plenty of people from Washington State also vacation in Long Beach as well, and more and more people who don't hail from the general region are starting to take notice.
Of the towns that can be found along the Long Beach WA peninsula, Long Beach proper might be the most family-friendly. You'll find go-cart tracks in town, for example, and it's easy to rent things like banana bikes and beach cruisers. Carnival rides are also in good supply, and the carousel is certainly popular with families that have young children. Of course, the whole peninsula maintains a family-friendly appeal, and there certainly isn't a lack of things to do regardless of your age.
Hanging out on the beach is understandably one of the most popular things to do in Long Beach Washington, though since the waters stay relatively cold year round, you might not end up doing a lot of swimming. The peninsula's beach stretches for more than twenty miles, so long strolls along the sand are possible. Other beach activity options include flying kites, building sandcastles, and exploring tide pools. You can also go horseback riding on the beach, and vehicles are allowed on the sand. The beach actually doubles as a state highway, with the speed limit being 25 miles per hour. Beach access roads are found in good number on the Long Beach Peninsula.
Digging for razor clams is one of the most popular things to do in Long Beach WA. The area is also rich in oysters, and you can find both clams and oysters on many local restaurant menus. Salmon and tuna are other delicacies from the sea, and thanks to the numerous Long Beach fishing charters, it isn't difficult to arrange fishing expeditions that can see you catching your own meal. South of Long Beach Town is Ilwaco, and it is an especially good place to arrange fishing excursions.
The various towns on the Long Beach Peninsula all have their charms. Lovely Oysterville boasts an enticing National Historic District, for example, and the Victorian homes in Seaview can be a joy to admire. Also worth checking out while on the peninsula are the state parks. At Fort Columbia State Park, savoring the views from the wooded bluff is recommended, and there are plenty of hiking trails to take on. Exhibits that cover the history of the area can be found at the park's interpretive center. In nearby Cape Disappointment State Park, it is possible to tour the North Head Lighthouse, which is the oldest lighthouse on the West Coast, and you can camp overnight. The park is also where you will find the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. It is worth highlighting the fact that the Long Beach Peninsula was the end of the Lewis and Clark expedition's western trail.
No discussion about Long Beach Washington would be complete without going into depth about Jake the Alligator Man. A pop culture icon of sorts in the Northwest, Jake the Alligator Man is a half-man, half-alligator creature in mummified condition. You can find "him" in a glass case at Marsh's Free Museum. This museum, in turn, is found at 409 S. Pacific Avenue in Long Beach Town. In case you are wondering, the alleged half-man, half-alligator creature that is Jake the Alligator Man was supposedly discovered in a Florida swamp.
Long Beach WA hotels offer something for virtually every taste or preference, so visitors should have little trouble finding a good travel base. It gets even easier to secure accommodations that suit your wants and needs when you also consider the vacation rentals. Condos are in relatively good supply, as are cottages and bungalows.
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